Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
The Carolina Runner is a custom-built 40-foot craft that includes a bar, blue tooth sound system, LED party lights, a loading ramp for easy shore access to Masonboro Island, complete modern toilet facilities, and many other amenities for groups up to 40.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Numerous uninhabited islands dot the waters around Wrightsville Beach, and during this 2-hour adventure cruise, you can explore at least one of them. Start at Money Island, where notorious pirate Captain Kidd is said to have buried his treasure and home to the area’s largest sand dune—perfect for sliding down—then cruise toward Masonboro Island, the longest undisturbed barrier island ecosystem in southern North Carolina. If time allows, hop off and traverse from marsh to oceanside in search of giant sea shells. On your return to the docks, keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine life.
Options
Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
128 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Very cool to get out on...
Lauren B,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00Very cool to get out on the water! The crew was lovely. I think the price is quite steep for what the experience is. You go to two islands and explore them on your own.
Amazing Tour Guides!
Melanie H,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The captain and Evelyn were wonderful! Both ladies were full of knowledge and very helpful with any questions. Enjoyed our excursion and got to see some dolphins on our way back as a bonus!
Great experience, would 100% do it again.
amanda T,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We couldn't have had a better experience on the island hopper. Captain Rick and Co-Captain Rusty were hospitable, hilarious, and very informative. The kids had a blast rolling down the dunes on the man-made Money Island and then sparked their imagination exploring the tide pools on the second island. The trip was just enough time to fill half the day but also not so long that the kids would get hungry or restless. We will absolutely go on the tour again the next time We visit wrightsville beach.
Very Limited Parking
donaldpQ2367EF,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Trip was great but parking was a huge issue. Ended up with a $150 parking ticket because the only spot I could find was a compact spot of which even though I paid for parking and was not blocking anything I still received a ticket. I would recommend that limited parking be communicated and a recommendation be encouraged that if you are going with a larger group you might want to consider getting Uber.
Great adventure!
D3405ZJericw,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great trip! Highly recommended
For a good time, call these guys!
Glenna B,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Staff was friendly and knowledgeable about the area. The tour was very nice, and we got a good number of steps in!
Great first boat ride for my grandson and his parents.
barbaradU8614UT,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My grandson loved his first boat ride and brought his excavator to dig in the sand. He was thrilled and the crew were all super nice.
Great cruise with kids!
Jessica A,May 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Captain Summer and Evelyn were great guides. We had a wonderful time—the cruise is just the right amount of time. Good to see houses from the water and spend time on a boat.
Enjoyable
Richard H,May 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Relaxing professional staff
One Shell of a Trip!
Joanie D,May 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very comfortable and sturdy boat. Our host Amy and captain Rick were wonderful and very hospitable and accommodating. It’s the perfect amount of time and I found many beautiful shells !
Related Experiences
Operated by Carolina Runner Boat Tours